Governor Hochul Declares State of Emergency Due to Brush Fires on Long Island – One America News Network
OAN Staff Abril Elfi
12:00 PM – Sunday, March 9, 2025
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a state of emergency due to significant brush fires in Long Island.
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On Saturday, Hochul (D-N.Y.) declared a state of emergency for Suffolk County.
“We are mobilizing resources as swiftly as possible. I have activated our agencies, including the National Guard and State Police, to provide both air and ground support and to ensure the safety of our Long Island residents,” Hochul stated in a release.
“I’ve declared a state of emergency to secure resources without delay,” she added. “This is a developing situation and we are concerned about air quality—New Yorkers should stay updated on emergency alerts and be prepared to evacuate if needed.”
The fire reportedly began around 1 p.m. in Center Moriches, Suffolk County, before quickly spreading to East Moriches, Eastport, and Westhampton. While the fires in Center Moriches, East Moriches, and Eastport have been put out, the fire in Westhampton is currently 50% contained.
The Louisiana National Guard is utilizing four helicopters to drop water, and a C-130 aircraft is providing aerial monitoring, as confirmed by the governor’s office. Various government agencies are assisting, employing drones, managing traffic, and providing staff support.
Support is being offered by the state’s Office of Emergency Management, Office of Fire Prevention and Control, Department of Transportation, Department of Environmental Conservation, State Parks, and the New York State Police.
Hochul also mentioned that 100,000 N95 masks are scheduled to be dispatched to the affected area on Sunday morning.
According to CBS News, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine reported that one firefighter suffered facial burns and was airlifted to the burn center at Stony Brook University Hospital, but officials noted he is recovering well.
Suffolk County Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Services Commissioner Rudy Sunderman indicated that two commercial buildings have sustained damage, but residents are not presently in the danger zone.
The cause of the fire remains unknown. However, officials have stated that strong winds contributed to its rapid spread.
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